8 Costs That Rise with Larger Dogs

If you have a spacious home with ample yard space, you might dream of welcoming a large or giant dog breed into your family. Many of these imposing breeds, like the Great Dane or the Bernese Mountain Dog, are famed for their gentle temperament and warm companionship.

However, their large stature comes with equally substantial needs. These dogs demand more care, room, and financial resources throughout their lives. While dog ownership always involves costs, expenses tend to rise notably with the animal’s size. Here, we outline eight major areas where owning a bigger dog will cost you more, helping you better prepare before adding a large breed to your household.

1. Food

Nourishing a large dog is one of the clearest ongoing expenses. Larger breeds require a far greater caloric intake, so your monthly food bills will naturally eclipse those of smaller dogs. For a giant breed such as a Great Dane, dry kibble alone can range between $140 to $170 per month, depending on brand and quality. Premium or fresh food options — which can support a large dog’s health more effectively — may amplify this cost considerably, reaching up to $600 or more per month when using fresh food delivery services like The Farmer’s Dog. Selecting nutritionally appropriate food is essential for your dog’s wellbeing but comes with heftier costs.

2. Surgical Procedures and Veterinary Care

Expenses for veterinary services, including surgeries, typically increase with dog size. Procedures such as neutering or spaying require more anesthetic and time when done on larger breeds, leading to higher fees. If your dog requires other surgeries or medical treatments due to illness or injury, the larger doses of medications and extended aftercare all contribute to increased veterinary bills.

3. Flea and Worming Treatments

Preventive parasite treatments like flea and worm medications are dosed according to the dog’s weight. This means that large and giant breeds must be given larger quantities to effectively protect them. The cost of monthly or quarterly treatments rises correspondingly, reflecting the bigger dosage amounts necessary for maintaining parasite-free health in larger dogs.

4. Collars, Leashes, and Coats

Accessories built for large dogs must be extra durable to handle their strength and size. Collars and leashes need to be longer, stronger, and more reliable, and naturally cost more than those designed for small breeds. Similarly, jackets or coats for big dogs use more materials and are priced higher. Well-fitting equipment is vital to guarantee your dog’s safety and comfort during walks and outdoor activities.

5. Bedding

Quality beds provide essential comfort and joint support, especially since large dogs are prone to joint problems like arthritis. Beds large enough for giant breeds can rival the size of a human mattress and come with a higher price tag accordingly. Investing in a durable, cushioned bed will ensure your big dog has a cozy and supportive place to rest.

6. Pet Insurance

Pet insurance costs for large breeds are generally steeper because their potential veterinary expenses are higher, and they may be more vulnerable to breed and size-related health conditions. Premiums are often calculated based on the dog's breed risks and the greater likelihood of costly claims, making insurance for a large dog more expensive than for smaller companions.

7. Medications

Whether treating chronic health issues or acute illnesses, medication dosages largely depend on your dog’s weight. Larger dogs usually require higher doses or more frequent medication, causing an increase in long-term pharmaceutical expenses. Although some medications may only add a few extra dollars per treatment, the cumulative cost can grow quickly for bigger breeds with ongoing health needs.

8. Boarding and Training Expenses

Costs for boarding at kennels or enrolling in training classes often ascend with the dog’s size, because bigger dogs need more space and individualized attention. Training is particularly critical for very large breeds to promote safe interaction and manageable behavior, which can raise the need for professional services and increase overall care costs.

Having a large dog brings immense joy yet also necessitates thoughtful consideration of the financial, spatial, and time commitments involved. Responsible dog ownership means planning carefully to provide for your pet’s unique requirements regardless of size or breed.

If you are looking to find a puppy or source Bernese Mountain Dog puppies or similar breeds, it's wise to choose reputable breeders and be prepared for the ongoing costs we've outlined to ensure a happy and healthy life for your new family member.